Stricken Naval Academy Midshipman Dies

ANNAPOLIS, Md. -- A freshman at the U.S. Naval Academy has died after being treated for a possible case of bacterial meningitis, the academy said Monday.

Academy spokesman Cmdr. Joe Carpenter said in an e-mail that the 20-year-old freshman, or plebe, died early Monday evening at the University of Maryland Medical Center.

Navy officials later identified the victim as Midshipman 4th Class Frederick H. Eissler, of West Chester, Pa.

"The Naval Academy is deeply saddened by this tragic loss. Our most heartfelt sympathies and condolences go out to the Eissler family. Our thoughts are with them during this very difficult time,” said Naval Academy Superintendent, Vice Adm. Jeffrey L. Fowler.

Naval Academy officials said Eissler died of complications due to an infectious bacteria frequently associated with bacterial meningitis.

Eissler was stricken ill on Wednesday and taken to Baltimore Washington Medical Center. Friday night, he was transferred to the University of Maryland Medical Center.

Carpenter said bacterial meningitis can only be spread through close, person-to-person contact. As a precaution, 44 midshipmen, staff and first responders who were near the stricken midshipman have received antibiotics and are being monitored by medical staff.

No other midshipman, staff or faculty have been diagnosed with bacterial meningitis, Carpenter said.

Funeral services will be held at the Naval Academy Chapel at noon on Friday.